Expat Topics
Moving Abroad from Singapore
Tiny island, global ambitions — why Singaporeans are spreading their wings
Last updated March 2026
350K+
Singaporeans Abroad
Australia
Top Destination
2 years + reservist
NS Obligation
SGD $110K+
COE for Cars
Despite Singapore's world-class infrastructure and economic success, a growing number of Singaporeans — especially young professionals — explore life abroad for career diversity, lower costs, and lifestyle change. Australia, the UK, and the US are traditional favorites, while a new wave discovers the appeal of Taiwan, Japan, and European cities. National Service obligations add complexity for Singaporean men considering moves.
Top 8 Destinations for Singapore Expats
Where Singapore citizens are actually moving — with honest reasons why.
🇦🇺Australia
Largest Singaporean community abroad. Space, nature, and familiar multicultural environment. Melbourne and Sydney preferred.
🇬🇧United Kingdom
Historic Commonwealth ties, university pathway, and London's global finance hub.
🇺🇸United States
Tech and finance careers. Silicon Valley, NYC, and Boston attract Singaporean professionals.
🇨🇦Canada
Immigration-friendly, multicultural, and affordable compared to Singapore's housing costs.
🇯🇵Japan
Cultural affinity, food culture, and relatively affordable living. Growing Singaporean community in Tokyo.
🇹🇼Taiwan
Chinese-speaking, affordable, and increasingly popular for lifestyle-driven Singaporean emigrants.
🇲🇾Malaysia
Just across the causeway — many Singaporeans commute daily. JB and KL offer dramatically lower living costs.
🇹🇭Thailand
Affordable lifestyle, familiar Asian food culture, and growing digital nomad infrastructure.
Why People Leave Singapore
- 1Housing costs: HDB flats now average SGD $500K+, private condos SGD $1.5M+ — among Asia's highest property costs
- 2Car ownership: COE (Certificate of Entitlement) costs SGD $110K+ before the car itself — making car ownership a luxury
- 3Work culture: intense competition and long hours, with limited work-life balance compared to Australia or Europe
- 4Size constraints: Singapore is 733 km² — some feel the island is too small for long-term exploration
- 5National Service: 2 years mandatory military service + 10 years reservist obligations for men
- 6Cost of living: among the world's most expensive cities for dining, entertainment, and daily expenses
Important Considerations Before Leaving
- Singapore allows dual citizenship for minors only — adults must renounce Singaporean citizenship to naturalize elsewhere
- National Service: Singaporean men need exit permits to live abroad and must return for reservist duties until age 40-50
- CPF (Central Provident Fund): withdrawable only at age 55 or upon renouncing citizenship — plan carefully
- Singapore passport: ranked #1 globally (tied with Japan) — losing it is a massive sacrifice for travel freedom
- Tax implications: Singapore has no CGT and low income tax — moving to a higher-tax country significantly impacts take-home pay
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Singapore citizens live abroad?
An estimated 350K+ Singapore citizens currently live abroad. The top destination is Australia.
What are the best countries to move to from Singapore?
The most popular destinations for Singapore expats are Australia, United Kingdom, United States, Canada. Each offers different advantages from career growth to lifestyle and cost savings.
What should I consider before leaving Singapore?
Singapore allows dual citizenship for minors only — adults must renounce Singaporean citizenship to naturalize elsewhere National Service: Singaporean men need exit permits to live abroad and must return for reservist duties until age 40-50
Not sure where to move from Singapore?
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